It is caused by irritation or damage to the nerve, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, pressure, aging, or chronic illnesses. Nervalgia refers to severe, shooting pain that follows the path of a nerve. Among the types of neuralgia that can affect any part of the body are trigeminal neuralgia, postherpetic neuralgia, and occipital neuralgia. Medications, physical therapies, or surgery can be used to treat neuralgia, depending on the cause and severity of the pain. Risk factors that can harm the nerves can also be avoided or managed to prevent neuralgia.
Causes of Neuralgia
When a nerve is damaged or malfunctioning, neuralgia can occur. Some of the possible causes of neuralgia are:
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The nerves can be damaged or inflamed by infections such as shingles, Lyme disease, HIV, or dental infections.
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A bone, a blood vessel, a tumor, or inflammation can compress nerves, causing pain and numbness.
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The nerves and their protective covering (myelin) can degenerate or malfunction under chronic conditions such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or kidney disease.
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In the course of aging, the nerves can become worn out or lose their function, making them more susceptible to injury and disease.
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There are some cases of neuralgia where there is no clear cause for the nerve problem.
Symptoms of Neuralgia
Neuronalgia is characterized by intense pain that follows a nerve's course. It can be described as burning, stabbing, electric shock-like, or throbbing. The pain may be triggered by touch, movement, or temperature changes, or it may occur spontaneously. There is no fixed duration for neuralgia pain. It can last for a few seconds to several minutes, or it can be constant. Its frequency and intensity can also vary according to its cause and type.
Neuralgia can also cause the following symptoms:
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Feelings of tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected area
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Twitching or spasms of the muscles
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Changes in the skin, such as redness, swelling, or blisters
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Affected area loses sensation or function
Diagnosis of Neuralgia
Medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests are used to diagnose neuralgia. Symptoms, the onset and duration of the pain, triggers and relievers of the pain, as well as the medical history and family history of the patient, may be asked. A doctor may also examine the affected area for signs of nerve damage, such as reduced sensation, reflexes, or strength.
Diagnostic tests may include:
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The speed and strength of nerve signals can be measured by nerve conduction studies, which can help determine the location and extent of nerve damage.
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An electromyography is a test that measures the electrical activity of muscles to detect muscle abnormalities caused by nerve problems.
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The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan produces detailed images of the internal structures of the body. These tests can be used to detect tumors, blood vessels, or other sources of nerve pressure.
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Infections, inflammation, or other conditions that can cause neuralgia can be ruled out or confirmed by blood tests.
Treatment of Neuralgia
Neuralgia is treated by relieving the pain and addressing the underlying cause. Some of the treatment options are:
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Medication, such as painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, or opioids. These medications reduce pain and inflammation, or modify nerve signals that cause pain.
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Therapies such as massage, acupuncture, heat or cold therapy, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can reduce muscle tension, improve blood circulation, and inhibit pain signals.
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Surgical procedures such as microvascular decompression, nerve block, or nerve ablation can relieve pressure on nerves, block pain signals, or destroy nerve fibers that cause pain.
Prevention of Neuralgia
Neuralgia can be prevented by avoiding or managing the risk factors that can damage or irritate the nerves. Some of the preventive measures include:
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Treating infections as well as illnesses including multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and shingles that can have an impact on the nerves.
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Avoiding or using drugs or other substances—like alcohol, smoke, or some antibiotics—that can damage nerves.
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Preventing repetitive actions, using protective clothing, and maintaining proper posture are some ways to protect the nerves from harm or trauma.
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keeping up a healthy lifestyle that includes getting enough sleep, managing stress, eating a balanced diet, and exercising frequently.
